February marks National Library Lover’s Month, and there’s an awful lot to love any time of year! Many libraries are not only home to books and other media, but they are centers of the community, providing music performances, meeting spaces, workshops, book groups and many kid- and teen-friendly activities.
But the main focus of libraries has always been on reading, which leads to more than just book smarts—it also results in emotional, social and mental health benefits as well.
“Children learn by role modeling and experience, so parents who are actively involved in reading themselves and reading to their children help to create lifelong readers,” says Dr. Sue Cohen, Director of Early Childhood and Psychological Services at North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center. “But just as important, reading is a wonderful parent/caregiver and child activity that not only promotes literacy, but builds a warm relationship.”
The Guidance Center’s Marks Family Right From the Start 0-3+ Center in Manhasset contains a library stocked with books for children of all ages and on a range of topics, while the waiting area has many different magazines. “We’ve created a space where parents and their children are free to enjoy their time together reading,” says Cohen.
The Guidance Center also runs a book-focused program at the Children’s Center of Nassau County Family Court, which offers a safe and enriching environment for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years while their parents are involved in court business.
“Here at the Children’s Center, staff and volunteers read frequently to children, which calms their fears and anxiety,” says Joan Antonik, Head Teacher at the Children’s Center. “It takes them to an imaginary place of fun through reading. Reading aloud to your children promotes language development and early literacy skills. It gives children an understanding of how stories challenge your imagination and creativity. When parents read to children, it allows for quality time and the enjoyment of stories.”
The Children’s Center makes sure each child goes home with a book to help encourage the reading habit!
Wherever you find your favorite reading spot, you and your children will gain many benefits:
- Reading reduces stress and increases relaxation. Getting absorbed in a good book engages the imagination and stimulates creativity, helping to leave behind the worries of the day.
- Reading helps develop empathy, and empathy is a strong indicator of social and emotional intelligence. As readers get involved in a storyline, they empathize with characters. They can also learn about other cultures, which stimulates the ability to see life from someone else’s point of view.
- Reading helps to improve concentration and memory. According to researchers at Emory University, becoming engrossed in a book enhances connectivity in the brain and improves brain function.
- Books help teach coping skills. Stories can help kids learn how to handle new experiences, especially difficult ones like losing a pet or being teased.
Most of all, reading is fun! So make reading a daily part of your interaction with your little ones, and then watch them blossom!
Note: If you have new or gently used children’s books that you’d like to donate to the Children’s Center, contact Joan Antonik at jantonik12@gmail.com
Sources:
https://readingpartners.org/blog/four-compelling-reasons-shut-off-screen-open-good-book/
https://www.kidcentraltn.com/article/benefits-of-reading-to-your-child
